From Franciscan Media

October 10. Saint Francis Borgia had it made according to every social standard. He had name, position, power, etc. But after a series of events, including the death of his wife, he joined the Jesuits, where he used his professional talents and abilities in the service of his Order and the Church.

October 9. This martyr and patron of France is regarded as the first bishop of Paris. His popularity is due to a series of legends, especially those connecting him with the great abbey church of St. Denis in Paris.

October 8. Saint John Leonardi was a priest and founder of the Clerks Regular of the Mother of God. He also formed the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine. Father Leonardi and his priests became a great power for good in 16th century Italy.

October 7. The rosary is a truly Catholic devotion. It is a form of prayer and meditation in honor of Mary and celebrates the mysteries of Jesus' and Mary’s lives. It has been called a miniature catechism highlighting the key events of our faith. Our Lady of the Rosary remembers Mary’s intercession and celebrates this popular devotion.

October 6. Today we celebrate a saint who was never canonized and who wanted to live in solitide and prayer. Saint Bruno was a Carthusian who took great steps to find a quiet place to live in spite of being asked to assist the Pope in Rome.

October 5. A Sister of Our Lady of Mercy, Saint Maria Faustina was blessed with unique messages from Christ concerning his mercy and forgiveness. These messages came at a time when many people viewed God as a strict judge. Like Pope Francis, Saint Faustina emphasized the mercy of God. She died in 1938, and was canonized in 2000: a truly modern saint.

October 4. Saint Francis of Assisi: founder of the Franciscan family, Patron Saint of ecology, inspiration to thousands, claimed by people of all faiths as well as by those with no particular faith, a truly “catholic and apostolic man.” Though born in the 13th century, he belongs to all ages.

October 3. Saint Theodora was born in France but came to Vincennes, Indiana, at the invitation of the bishop. Eventually she established a new foundation of her community in the States, but not after suffering many hardships. Saint Theodora is buried at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana, the headquarters of the Sisters of Providence.

October 2. Angels play an important role in Sacred Scripture as messengers of God. The belief that each person has a guardian angel watching over him or her is an extension of that role, and a reminder of God's never-failing providence.